Streaming Netflix on an HDTV doesn’t require a smart TV—you can easily use your iPhone 5 to watch your favorite shows on the big screen. Even though the iPhone 5 is an older model, it still supports several reliable ways to connect to a television. This guide explains every method clearly so you can enjoy Netflix with better sound and a full-screen experience.
What You Need to Know First
The iPhone 5 uses a Lightning port, so any wired connection must be compatible with Lightning. Also, Netflix supports both wired and wireless mirroring as long as your iPhone and TV are set up correctly.
Below are all the working methods, including the easiest and most stable options.
Method 1: Connect Using the Lightning Digital AV Adapter (Best Option)
The most reliable way to watch Netflix from your iPhone 5 on an HDTV is by using Apple’s Lightning Digital AV Adapter.
What You Need
-
Lightning Digital AV Adapter (Apple-certified recommended)
-
HDMI cable
-
HDTV with an available HDMI port
-
iPhone 5 with the Netflix app installed
Steps to Connect
-
Plug the Adapter into Your iPhone 5
Connect the Lightning end of the adapter to your iPhone. -
Connect an HDMI Cable
Insert one end of the HDMI cable into the adapter’s HDMI port. -
Plug the Other End Into Your TV
Use any open HDMI input on your HDTV. -
Turn on Your TV and Switch to the HDMI Input
Use the remote to select the correct HDMI source. -
Open Netflix on Your iPhone
Choose any movie or show.
Your TV will display exactly what you see on your iPhone screen.
Why This Method Is Recommended
-
No WiFi needed
-
Works with older TVs
-
Stable connection with no lag
-
HD playback without buffering
Method 2: Use Apple TV and AirPlay (Wireless Streaming)
If you prefer a wireless setup, the iPhone 5 supports AirPlay, Apple’s screen-mirroring feature.
Requirements
-
Apple TV (2nd generation or later)
-
HDTV with HDMI input
-
iPhone 5
-
Both devices on the same WiFi network
How to Stream Netflix Wirelessly
-
Connect Apple TV to Your HDTV
Use HDMI and turn on the device. -
Join the Same WiFi Network
Make sure both the iPhone 5 and Apple TV share the same wireless network. -
Open Netflix on Your iPhone
Play your movie or show. -
Swipe Up to Open Control Center
(On iPhone 5, swipe up from the bottom of the screen.) -
Tap AirPlay → Select Your Apple TV
Choose Mirroring if needed.
The content will play wirelessly on your HDTV.
Pros of Wireless Streaming
-
No cables
-
Easy switching between apps
-
Comfortable viewing from anywhere in the room
Possible Downsides
-
Requires strong WiFi
-
Slight delay with screen mirroring
Method 3: Use a Lightning-to-VGA Adapter (For Older TVs Without HDMI)
If your HDTV doesn’t support HDMI, you can use a Lightning-to-VGA adapter.
Steps
-
Connect the VGA adapter to your iPhone.
-
Use a VGA cable to plug into your TV.
-
Switch your TV to the VGA input.
-
Open Netflix and start streaming.
Note:
VGA does not support audio, so you will need external speakers connected to your iPhone’s headphone jack.
Method 4: Screen Mirroring Using Smart TV Apps (Rare for iPhone 5)
Some newer HDTVs include apps that allow mirroring from iOS devices.
However, since the iPhone 5 uses older iOS versions, compatibility is limited.
If your TV offers AirPlay support, you can connect wirelessly without Apple TV, but this is much more common on modern televisions.
Troubleshooting Tips
✔ Netflix Not Displaying on TV?
Some HDMI adapters do not support DRM content like Netflix.
Use Apple’s official Lightning Digital AV Adapter for the best compatibility.
✔ No Sound?
Check:
-
TV volume
-
HDMI cable firmly connected
-
Netflix audio settings
✔ AirPlay Not Working?
Make sure:
-
Both devices are on the same WiFi
-
Apple TV and iPhone are updated
-
AirPlay is enabled in Apple TV settings
Final Thoughts
Connecting an iPhone 5 to an HDTV to watch Netflix is easier than you might think. Whether you choose a wired Lightning-to-HDMI solution for maximum stability or prefer the convenience of AirPlay, your iPhone can turn any TV into a Netflix-ready screen. With the right setup, you can comfortably enjoy movies, shows, or documentaries with a full cinematic feel.